Coming home for the holidays in Ulster County is a tradition for many people. Some may have grown up in the region and later moved away, coming back to visit family and friends. Some may have vacation homes here, especially winter vacation homes that offer incredible mountain views for the season, and come to get away during Christmas or Winter Break. Some may live here year-round, having moved here from other areas, leaving behind the big city lights, or seeking out the wonderful sense of community and togetherness that Ulster County has to offer. And others may be born-and-bred lifelong Ulster County residents, calling this region of the Hudson Valley and Catskills home forever.

Whatever brings you home to Ulster County this holiday season, there’s so much to enjoy. Read on for ideas on things to do around the holidays, as well as some great tips for making Ulster County your holiday and even your forever home.

Holiday Happenings in Ulster County

While many restaurants and establishments are closed for Christmas Eve and Day, the Tavern at Diamond Mills is offering a Prix Fixe menu for Christmas Eve. It’s a great way to get together with family and friends if no one wants to cook this year. Let them do the work for you, and sit down and enjoy each other’s company as you dine on their 5-course meal. Reservations are encouraged, so be sure to schedule yours now!

There’s always something to do in Ulster County and the holidays make it even more magical. The Bearsville Theater is hosting a great New Year’s Eve bash with various DJ’s and musicians, artists, and even a balloon drop at midnight! They have general admission both in advance and at the door, as well as VIP options if you really want to ring in 2022 in style.

In addition to events, there’s no shortage of outdoor adventures to be had. From hiking around our many parks, to horseback riding, and even cycling, as long as you dress warmly, it’s great to get outside! While there isn’t quite enough snow on the ground for snowshoeing or cross country skiing just yet this season, don’t fret as that’s sure to be on the way as winter progresses. Looking for ideas on exploring the great outdoors this winter? Check out our blog from earlier this month on Fun Winter Activities in Ulster County.

Supporting Great Causes

The holiday season is also about giving, and giving back to the community and other great causes. The Ulster County SPCA is hosting a fundraiser called “Carolin’ Canines” where they send rescue dogs out (with a human escort of course!) to carol for people in the region. It’s a fun and pup-tactic way to spread some cheer and support dogs in need.

Every year, the Ulster County Board of REALTORS also supports the regional coat drive based in Kingston, NY. The drive gathers new coats for children in need throughout the county to help keep them warm in winter. It’s an annual drive, and something that the UCBR is proud to support again this year. Last week, there was a successful coat delivery today at George Washington school in Kingston. It was really amazing to have this coat drive be such a success again this year! Check out some photos from the event below. If you’d like to get involved, we are taking donations for new coats for kids both boys and girls ages 5 – 14 until the end of January.  Drop off locations are at are Board office located at 74 Broadway in Kingston or Potter Realty located at 1 John Street Kingston.

Pictured are Bill Slutzky, Nan Potter and Sheena Lepez of the Ulster County Board of REALTORS Community Services Committee.

Whether you call Ulster County your hometown, make it your home year-round, or just come to visit from time to time, there’s something special about being home in Ulster County for the holidays. The Ulster County Board of Realtors® wishes you and all of your loved ones a wonderful, magical, holiday season!